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Springfield offers several car rental options, both at nearby Bradley International Airport (BDL) in Connecticut and in downtown Springfield.
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Bradley International Airport (BDL) |
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| Downtown Springfield |
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Transportation to rental locations:
Check downtown pickups vs Bradley Airport. Downtown Springfield offices skip the 10-15 % airport concession fee and often post lower base rates. A quick rideshare from Union Station still keeps total cost under the airport rate for many rentals.
Shift your dates. Springfield prices dip in winter (January-March) and mid-week year-round. Even moving your pickup from Friday to Thursday or Monday can shave off a few bucks. For summer or foliage weekends, locking in a car early really does pay off.
Compare daily vs weekly pricing. A 7-day "weekly" rate can be cheaper than 5 or 6 individual days. Run both options in the search box before you click book.
Fill the tank yourself. Local stations sit within a mile of every return lot and charge about $3-4/gal, while the rental counter hits you for $9-10/gal. Easy math.
Parking in Springfield:
| Parking Type | Notes |
|---|---|
| Street Meters | Paid at kiosks or meters; free evenings and Sundays in many areas—always check posted enforcement hours |
| Springfield Parking Authority Garages | Downtown garages such as the Civic Center and Union Station provide convenient access to attractions |
| Hotel Parking | Most Springfield hotels offer on-site spots; confirm policies at your property |
| Residential Areas | Some free curbside spots are available, but there may be time limits or overnight bans during winter |
Driving regulations:
Book a car rental so you can visit:
The Berkshires – Tanglewood, Norman Rockwell Museum
Boston – Freedom Trail, Fenway Park
Connecticut River Valley – Historic Deerfield, Brattleboro VT
College towns Amherst & Northampton – UMass Amherst, Smith College
Six Flags New England – roller coasters, water park
Quabbin Reservoir – Winsor Dam, Enfield Lookout

What documents do I need to rent a car in Springfield?
You need a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. You usually don't need to show proof of your own insurance unless you use a debit card or decline the rental company's coverage and the company asks for it. If you're visiting from another country, you'll need a valid passport. We also suggest an International Driving Permit if your license isn't in English or doesn't use the Roman alphabet. Some companies require it.
Can I rent a car if I'm under 25?
Yes. Most major companies rent to drivers 21 and older, but they usually charge a young-driver fee of about $25 per day. A few providers will rent to 18- to 20-year-olds, but you should expect higher fees and more restrictions.
Do I need special insurance for winter driving?
The standard insurance options are enough, but you might want to add the collision damage waiver for peace of mind in winter weather. If you are visiting when it might snow, you should consider renting an all-wheel-drive vehicle.
Are there any toll roads around Springfield?
Yes. The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) near Springfield has all-electronic (cashless) tolls. The system automatically bills your rental car using its license plate or a transponder. You can sign up for the rental company's toll program or use your own E-ZPass. Otherwise, the rental company will bill you for the toll later and often adds a small service fee.
What's the best vehicle type for exploring the Berkshires?
In summer and fall, a standard car works well on paved roads. For winter trips, we recommend an all-wheel-drive SUV, especially if you plan to visit ski areas or drive on rural roads.